Best Practices

Proven and Promising Best Practices for State and Community Oral Health Programs

A Best Practice Approach is defined as a public health strategy that is supported by evidence for its impact and effectiveness. Evidence includes research, expert opinion, field lessons, and theoretical rationale. 

A Best Practice Approach Report captures key information that describes the public health strategy, determines the strength of evidence, and illustrates implementation with current practice examples. The report serves as a resource to share ideas and promote best practices for state and community oral health programs.

The most recent Best Practice Approach Report from the Association of State and Territorial Dental Directors:  Best Practice Approach: Improving Children’s Oral Health Through Coordinated School Health Programs. (Report last updated May 26, 2011.)

A Full Listing of Best Practice Approach Reports from the Association of State and Territorial Dental Directors Follows:

Assessment  
        State-based Oral Health Surveillance System

Policy Development 
         State Oral Health Coalitions and Collaborative Partnerships 
         State Oral Health Plans and Collaborative Planning 
         Statutory Mandate for a State Oral Health Program  

Assurance
         Use of Fluoride: Community Water Fluoridation
         Use of Fluoride: School-based Fluoride Mouthrinse and Supplement Programs
         School-based Dental Sealant Programs
         Access to Oral Health Care Services: Workforce Development
         Oral Health of Children, Adolescents & Adults with Special Health Care Needs
         Improving Children’s Oral Health through Coordinated School Health Program
         Prevention and Control of Early Childhood Tooth Decay (Coming Soon)

This information was obtained from the Association of State and Territorial Dental Directors at http://www.astdd.org/index.php?template=bpfulllisting.php.